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Design and Technology

The Design and Technology Department is housed in a striking building featuring a series of large open-plan workshops with panoramic views over the South Downs and the sea.

These surroundings establish a relaxing yet inspiring space in which to face design challenges. The subject focuses on the created environment around us, how it came to be, how it changes, and what issues humanity will face in the future.

About the Curriculum

The specific area studied is Resistant Materials. At the heart of studies is the process of making, and for a great many pupils this is the most enjoyable aspect of the subject. Throughout the course, at all levels, practical work is embraced and reinforced with theory lessons. One of the central philosophies is that pupils should create useful and enduring contributions to the made world. Projects are designed to be lasting and quality is a core value.

In the first year of the Sixth Form the course is split into three modules: a product analysis, a designing module, and a making module. A variety of focus directions are possible in this year. In the second year pupils undertake a design and make task in which they identify a design need and create a solution. There are theory exams at both AS and A2 Levels. These are prepared for through weekly theory sessions comprising of a double lesson. Topics include all aspects of materials, manufacturing issues and processes, as well as social issues related to manufacturing and working conditions, the history of design and engineering, and future energy and resources issues.

Some pupils arrive at Lancing for the Sixth Form not having studied the subject previously, or studied under a very different system. The Department is accustomed to this situation, and works with each individual pupil to meet their specific learning needs.

Enrichment

The Department arranges a number of visits each year; recent trips have included the BMW/MINI factory, the Brunel degree show in London, the Goodwood Festival of Speed and other local manufacturing facilities.

A number of varied activities takes place during the year. There are links with Young Enterprise students, who can use the College workshops for manufacturing. The CCF engineering project has been the construction of a motorcycle engine-powered buggy, while a joint project with the Science Department sees the construction of an electric race car for the annual Greenpower races.

Careers

A number of students pursue careers related to designing. Pupils may go on to study architecture, engineering, product design, graphic design or urban planning. For many others their experience adds to a rounded education and a better understanding of the world around them.

Design and Technology News

Choosing the right GCSE subjects is a critical moment in our pupils’ education. At Lancing we believe in continually improving the subject choice offered to the pupils: a wide, modern and varied curriculum is essential...